Mastertons Coffee will be adding a touch of “coffee flair” to Fairview Racecourses’ annual Derby Day. The event which is a classic stake race for its three-year-old horses will take place this year on the 13th May 2017, the first Saturday Derby Day in years.

Synonymous with horseracing events is the dress code. Fashion at the races has become an institution with men and women using the occasion as a prime opportunity to showcase their style, flair and creativity. Annually NMMU’s Fashion and Textile Department hosts a fashion show during the Derby Day, with garments designed by their 2nd year students.

This year Mastertons Coffee has taken the theme, with each student briefed to create a garment around the overall theme of “Out of Africa”, which is a Mastertons coffee blend. Each student has based their design on a blend, however all designs must incorporate an African feel. Students have the freedom to incorporate various elements of coffee from the beans, to hessian bags or the packaging. Each student presented their design concept to NMMU and Mastertons Coffee on the 17th March. They have 6 weeks to create their garments.

“We are excited to be partnering with Fairview Racecourse and NMMU for what promises to be a fun filled day of unique experiences, while also highlighting the potential and need for local businesses, institutions and talent to work together to showcase what makes the Eastern Cape great!”, says Mastertons Coffee Director, Ryler Masterton.

To add more to the day, Fairview Race organizer, Karin Le Roux, has lined up live acts, a kiddie’s entertainment area and food trucks, with the intent to draw more of the public to the racecourse. Paledi Segapo, a national fashion designer, based in Johannesburg, will be present on the day as a guest judge for the fashion show. In addition, there will be a “Triple B Festival” where the public can enjoy burgers, beer and bourbon. National footwear brand, Cat Footwear will also have a pop-up store selling its latest footwear ranges.

Hope to see you all at the races!

More information can be found here: https://www.nmbt.co.za/events/world_sports_betting_east_cape_derby_raceday.html